Brisbane's Riverwalk to Rise Again

Brisbane's Riverwalk is a step closer to rising again from its watery grave on the Brisbane River, as the first girder in its reconstruction was placed at the weekend.

The iconic Riverwalk was devastated and washed away in the January 2011 floods that struck Brisbane.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss said the old Riverwalk had become a much loved part of the Brisbane surrounds and focal point of the river.

“It was not only an important transport connection catering to ferries and boats, but a link for pedestrians and cyclists, and a scenic recreation spot for locals and visitors alike,” Mr Truss said.

“As Australians we are used to adversity at the hands of nature but it does not make the recovery any easier. When we pull together to rebuild we take heart in what we achieve.

“Rebuilding after disaster strikes is always a long-term prospect, but work on the Riverwalk is a visible and tangible example of getting on with the job and revitalising Queensland.”

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said that this next stage in Riverwalk an important symbol that Brisbane had well and truly moved on from the devastating floods of 2011.

“Riverwalk is on its way and it will be bigger and better than ever,” said Cr Quirk. “This is yet another exciting New World City Development for Brisbane.”

Queensland Member for Brisbane Central Robert Cavalluci said that the girders were an important milestone in the Riverwalk project.

“The placement of the deck is a critical stage in the Riverwalk project and one of the busiest construction stages,” Mr Cavalluci said.

“All up 30 deck girders will complete an 850 metre-long walkway connecting New Farm and the Howard Smith Wharves in the City, designed to withstand greater flood events than those in 2011,” he said.

Cr Quirk said that Riverwalk would be a leisurely walkway for cyclists and pedestrians with places to rest and view the river, and featuring full lighting along its length.

“Each deck piece weighs more than 180-tonnes and will be lifted into place by two 400-tonne cranes situated on river barges,” said Cr Quirk.

“Unlike its floating predecessor, the new Riverwalk will have an opening span which will allow for the passage of vessels to and from moorings.

“With works in top gear we ask anyone moving around the vicinity to take extra care and remain vigilant for their own safety and that of workers on site.”

The new Riverwalk is expected to open in the second half of the year.

The $72 million Brisbane Riverwalk is one of some 10,000 reconstruction projects around the state funded by the Australian and Queensland governments under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements.